Storms, Dead Trees Could Hinder Firefighting Near Yosemite

UPDATE: Thursday, July 19, 7:06 a.m.

The Ferguson Fire burning near Yosemite National Park has grown to 21,000 acres and 7 percent containment, according to Richard Eagan with the Chula Vista Fire Department.

Mandatory evacuations are currently in effect on Incline Road from Clearing House to the last Bureau of Land Management campground and from Clearing House to the Foresta Bridge, in Jerseydale and Mariposa Pines, in the Cedar Lodge/Indian Flat campground and in the Savage's Trading Post and Sweetwater Ridge areas.

"I think things are progressing slowly, but we're moving in the right direction, I feel," Eagan said. "And hopefully, by week's end, we will keep it from the national park and be able to start containing this thing better." 

Wednesday, July 18, 5:10 p.m.

(AP) — A deadly forest fire kept spreading Wednesday west of Yosemite National Park, and erratic winds and trees killed by a historic California drought are expected to pose more problems for firefighters, officials said.

The blaze between the park and the town of Mariposa that's popular with visitors has scorched 27 square miles of dry brush and timber and is largely burning out of control, said Richard Eagan, a spokesman with the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection.

Forecasters expect thunderstorms Thursday afternoon to produce erratic, gusty winds that can be dangerous for more than 1,800 firefighters trying to stop the flames that started Friday. Another concern is thousands of trees killed by a yearslong drought.

"Dead trees are everywhere, north and south of the state, and when you add strong winds that can send ambers flying up to 5 miles, it can pose a huge risk for firefighters," Eagan said.

The flames have shut down Highway 140, a key route into the park, during tourist season and forced evacuations in nearby communities. But three other park entrances were open, as were trails, campgrounds, restaurants and lodges, though smoke is polluting the air and limiting visibility.

Smoke from the fire about 4 miles from the park's west entrance may be heavy at times, and visitors should be prepared to limit heavy outdoor activity when air quality is poor, park officials said.